MADISON - Daniel “Buddha” Haas, age 74, of Madison, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022, while attending the 76th annual ISC World Tournament in Moline, Ill. He was born on Feb. 26, 1948, in Madison, the son of Roman and Elma (Keating) Haas.

Buddha graduated from Madison West High School with the class of 1966. After retiring from the U.S. Postal service, he split his time enjoying warm summers in Wisconsin and leaving the cold winters for the warmer weather in California.

Buddha lived and breathed softball, both men’s and women’s fast pitch and his t-shirt and hat collections are evidence of that. He enjoyed attending softball tournaments across North America and always closed out the season at the International Softball Congress World Tournament. In 2022, Buddha attended his 50th ISC World Tournament where his presence was larger than anyone, even the players. His knowledge of the game transcended decades. Over the years he was an icon and legendary figure at all the ball parks as not only a fan and spectator, but he also served as a scorekeeper, PA announcer, games controller and helped in the selection of the All-World Teams. Buddha became involved with the San Jose State Women's Softball Team and was always proud and honored to be a part of the softball family.

He was an avid sports fan and strong supporter of the UW Badgers, hockey, football and basketball teams and rarely missed watching the San Francisco Giants and Green Bay Packers.

Daniel was a one-of-a-kind friend to many and each of those friends hold a special place in his heart. Although Buddha did not have any siblings or children of his own, he became a friend, brother, father, and grandfather figure to many people around the globe. The list of people who impacted Buddha’s life and who he touched is endless but special condolences go out to Liz Gorman and his ex-wife and good friend, Colleen Gorman, Dean Oscar, Karen Conrod and her sons, Cody and Kyler Johnson, The Turner Family (Pete, Kim, Chase, Alexis, Mia, and Ryanne), The Heffley Family (Russ, Jennifer, Morgan, Kristen and Allison) and Denny Baribeau. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roman and Elma and Peter “Petey” Turner.

Buddha touched so many in such a very positive and special way. There is a hole in our lives today, however his presence and impact will live on. Cherish the great memories we all have and may they support us all during this time of loss.

A celebration of life will be held at POOLEY'S SPORTS BAR AND EVENT CENTER, 5441 High Crossing Blvd., Madison, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7, 2022.

A donation in memory of Buddha will be made to The ISC Carrol Forbes Foundation. Those interested in sending a memorial can send a check to: Karen Conrod (In memory of Buddha), 1605 Gateway Drive, West Sacramento, CA 95691 or Venmo to @Karen-Conrod.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg
Funeral & Cremation Care
2950 Chapel Valley Road
(608) 442-5002

Daniel "Buddha" Haas

February 26, 1948 - August 17, 2022

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